The Lagos State Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) concluded its monitoring exercise of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) on Saturday. The initiative aimed to ensure strict adherence to the quality standards of education and the overall policy guiding the examinations in the State.
During the exercise, OEQA officials visited numerous examination centers across Lagos to assess various aspects of the examination process. This included checking the punctuality and preparedness of students, the availability and appropriateness of examination materials, and the conduct of invigilators and supervisors.
Mrs. Hameedat Mojisola Sanni, Director of the Quality Assurance Department at OEQA, led the officials to various examination centers on Lagos Island. She explained that the primary goal was to ensure that the examinations were conducted in a fair, transparent, and orderly manner.
“Our goal is to uphold the integrity of the BECE and ensure that every student is provided with an equal opportunity to perform to the best of their abilities,” Mrs. Sanni emphasized.
Mrs. Sanni revealed that observations from the exercise would be compiled into a comprehensive report for the government. This report will highlight areas of compliance and identify any lapses or challenges encountered during the examination process. The feedback will be invaluable in informing future policy decisions and improving the conduct of subsequent examinations.
In addition to assessing educational standards, the OEQA team evaluated the logistical aspects of the examinations. This included the timely arrival and distribution of examination papers, the adequacy of sitting arrangements, and the overall examination environment.
“The OEQA’s commitment to quality assurance extends beyond the examination period. The office plans to follow up on its observations with recommendations aimed at addressing identified issues and enhancing the overall quality of education in Lagos State,” Mrs. Sanni added.
Mr. Kamardeen Akodu, Director of the Monitoring and Investigation Department at OEQA, noted that the BECE is organized by the Lagos State Examinations Board for Junior Secondary School III (JSS3) students in both public and private schools across the state. He emphasized the importance of the BECE as a critical evaluation tool for assessing students’ knowledge and understanding accumulated from JSS1 to JSS3, which determines their promotion to Senior Secondary School I (SS1).
“We are embarking on this exercise today, with top officials of OEQA covering Lagos Island, visiting both private and public schools during this examination period. The aim is to ensure that the examinations are conducted smoothly and in accordance with established regulations,” Mr. Akodu said.
The monitoring exercise commenced on July 1st and concluded on July 7th, 2024. The monitoring team included Mr. Remi Abdul, Director of Planning Research and Statistics; Mrs. Jumoke Akinsanya, Zonal Director of Lagos Island; and Ms. Adepeju Adeyemi, Director of Public Affairs, among others.
The OEQA’s dedication to maintaining and improving educational standards through such monitoring activities underscores its commitment to providing quality education for all students in Lagos State.